Bug Identifier
Bird Poop Mimic Spider (Spiderling/Juvenile)
Community identification

Bird Poop Mimic Spider (Spiderling/Juvenile)

Pasilobus sp. / Celaenia excavata (likely genus)

Order & Family
Araneae: Araneidae
Size
2mm - 12mm (juvenile in image is likely 2-4mm)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, orchards, and woodland areas, typically found on the underside of leaves or on small twigs.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; primarily feeds on small flying insects. Some species specialize in luring male moths using chemical mimics of female moth pheromones.

Behavior Patterns

Employs aggressive mimicry and camouflage. During the day, it remains motionless on a leaf, resembling bird droppings or debris to avoid predation; at night, it becomes active to hunt.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling insect populations. They are harmless to humans and do not possess venom that is medically significant for people.